Local Attorneys Make Hazing in Arizona a Crime

Arizona News – August 12, 2022

A new law taking effect September 24 is making hazing a crime in Arizona. It’s named after Jack Culolias, an Arizona State University student who died following a fraternity pledge event in 2012.

Jack was just 19 years old when he decided to pledge to a fraternity at ASU. In November 2012, Jack disappeared after a fraternity pledge event that involved excessive amounts of alcohol. Days later, Jack’s body was found in Tempe Town Lake. No one was ever criminally held accountable for Jack’s death because it wasn’t possible at the time.

Local attorneys, like Pat McGroder and others at the firm Beus Gilbert McGroder, wanted that to change. “This is a serious matter that is impacting too many kids around this county,” said Attorney Patrick J. McGroder IV.

“I was shocked because it was not illegal, and that’s outrageous,” said State Representative John Kavanagh. Kavanagh is a sponsor of the new law and said the goal is to stop extreme hazing. It’s being called “Jack’s Law” and violators could now face criminal charges.